PCC launches public consultation on dealing with anti-social behaviour

The county’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne, has launched a public consultation today (Monday 28 July) inviting residents to have their say on how people who commit anti-social behaviour (ASB) are dealt with.

Community remedy, which is part of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act (2014), is designed to introduce simpler and more effective powers for tackling lower level crimes. It is also designed to provide victims, should they want it, a say in how an offender will make amends for the matter if the crime warrants an out of court settlement.

From October this year victims of crime will be able to choose from a list of options and police officers will be responsible for ensuring the reparation is administered. This may include compensation for damage caused or repairing the damage themselves, such as removing graffiti.

Mrs Bourne is seeking the opinions of residents and partners on what these options should be in Sussex, to ensure they reflect the views of local people and businesses.

Once the consultation is completed the Commissioner will work with Sussex Police to develop a community remedy that both reflects the wishes of local people and is practical, effective and proportionate.

Commenting on the consultation Mrs Bourne said: “This new legislation supports the priorities in the Sussex Police & Crime Plan, which sets out a more locally-driven and victim-centred approach to criminal justice.

The results of a recent poll on my website showed that anti-social behaviour is one of the biggest concerns for local people, with littering, drug and alcohol misuse, and inconsiderate driving and parking topping the list of issues local people are experiencing most often.

“I am determined to ensure that the community remedy in Sussex reflects the views of local people. Policing and crime in Sussex is everybody’s business and I urge as many people as possible to have their say by responding to the consultation.”

The consultation will close at midnight on 30 September 2014. A survey can be completed online athttp://www.sussex-pcc.gov.uk/, which gives respondents a list of options to consider as well as space for further suggestions.

Hard copies are being distributed at a number of public engagement events around the county and can also be requested from the Commissioner’s office by calling 01273 481561 or in writing to: Office of the Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner, Sackville House, Brooks Close, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 2FZ.